It is a widely believed theory that junior year is the most challenging year of high school, but what is not often told is how truly daunting senior year can be. Senior year is often celebrated as an exciting time filled with big events like graduation and the promise of new beginnings. Despite its reputation, it can also be the most stressful time in a student’s academic career mostly due to the extensive college application process.
“I didn’t expect senior year to be this hard,” senior Mia Carillo said. “No one tells you how stressful the first semester can be.”
Junior year is made out to be the toughest year due to the introduction of standardized testing and the pressure to maintain a high GPA. While these are stressful and hard to keep up with, it is nothing compared to the complex science of balancing these same aspects in addition to college applications. The college process is extensive and difficult to navigate, making semester one a nightmare for students who are easily overwhelmed. The applications require an essay, manual typed transcripts, supplemental essays, resumes, and additional information that takes weeks to compile. For a senior, having good time management can be a crucial strength.
“I set aside time afterschool for ACT tutoring so that I can get my studying done before my schoolwork and that really helps me” Senior Keani Sanchez said.
In addition to time management, a senior also must master the art of remembering the several deadlines that must be met when applying to colleges. If they are not met, the criteria changes and the process becomes more difficult. Not to mention what this miscalculation would do to your chance of acceptance.
Seniors need to be aware of every component, from completing SSAR forms to sending ACT scores and paying application fees. The constant flood of tasks and deadlines can create a significant amount of anxiety.
“I feel like everyday I’m told about a different thing I need to do,” senior Natalie Saumell said. “It’s very intimidating because everything seems to pile up onto one another.”
Adding to the pressure, seniors are also trying to savor their final moments of high school. There is a heightened sense of urgency to make the most of events like senior sunrise, prom, lock-in, and Senior Skit. This desire to create lasting memories, combined with the stress of academics and college applications, creates a delicate balancing act.
“Senior year can be hard to balance with applications, extracurriculars and schoolwork,” senior class president “But in the end the support I get from my sisters and teachers helps me get through it all.”
